Many of us Aquazone users look at those beautifully laid out tanks
and envy those who have the time and talent to create such wonderful
tanks. Here at AquazoneUSA you can learn how to! Just follow the
simple steps below to find out how to turn your boring old tank
into something visually spectactular!

Step 1:

Start off with a regular tank. Tank size is very important. Depending
upon what visual effect you are trying to achieve, your tank must
comply. If you plan on having long plants and "long fish," then
a taller tank would suit your visual need better. If you plan
on having many ground plants and fast swimming fish, then a longer
tank would be better suited. Here we start off with a relatively
small tank. (1024x768) This tank is roughly 10 gallons.

Step 2:

To start achieving your visual goals, select a gravel color that
will match you fish and plant life. For this tank, we choose a
lighter color.

We started adding some tall background plants. A good rule of
thumb: the taller plants should be placed in the back, the smaller
ones in the front. This will help create the 3-D effect we are
trying to go for. In this case, we placed some large rotala near
the heater-we are trying to hide it.

Step 3:

We now add an accessory. A natural object is always good-in this
case we use bogwood. Sandstone would also make a very nice touch.
The effect we are using here is based on the phenomenon called
the "golden spot." The human eye loves to see things 1/3 off center.
Divide the tank diagonally, top and sideways. Place your center
of focus on this line-1/3 off center.

Step 4:

This next step is rather crucial, the laying of the ground cover.
To create the lovely green carpet, we used Glosstigma, both large
and small. You could also substitute Copagrass as well. Place
the larger ones in the back and slowly add in the smaller ones.
Surround your point of view and create the bed. Once done, you
should have something that looks similiar to the picture on the
left.

Step 5:

Finally, add in one of your favorite accessories and surround
it by some larger plants. Here we used an angel surrounded by
Java Fern, both large and small. The effect is a very stunning
and balanced tank.

Several changes could be made, such as placing more plants in
the background and using a backdrop, but these will be covered
in the next part of Aquascaping. Until then, put these few ideas
to work and you will soon be a regular on The Feature Tank! Until
next time!